China’s Comprehensive Geologic Atlas of the Moon: A Closer Look at the Moon’s Past and Future

In recent years, China has unveiled a comprehensive geologic atlas of the moon, which is now available in both Chinese and English. The atlas provides a detailed look at the lunar surface with a scale of 1:2.5 million, highlighting intriguing geological features such as impact craters.

One of the notable features showcased in the atlas is the ring structure, with each ring representing an impact event. The smaller rings are known as impact craters, while the largest one, called an impact basin, exceeds 200 kilometers in diameter. The age of these features is indicated by different colors, with purple representing the oldest impact craters.

The mapping project began in 2012 and was led by Chinese scientists and cartographers who have played a crucial role in China’s exploration of the moon. Over the years, China has launched several lunar probes and missions, including orbiters like Chang’e 1 and Chang’e 2, as well as landers and rovers on both sides of the moon.

The atlas offers valuable insights into the moon’s history, resource distribution, and potential for future exploration. According to Ouyang Ziyuan, a prominent Chinese lunar scientist, China’s ambitious plans include building a lunar base, the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), in the 2030s and sending astronauts to the moon before 2030 as part of their ongoing lunar exploration efforts.